Richard John Galligo, Sr., (Iyuha Wastelakapi ‘everybody loves him’), 66 of Rapid City, South Dakota, was called home to join his family and his Lord, on January 11, 2018, at 11:32 p.m. He was born on December 31, 1951, in Martin, South Dakota, to Joseph and Rebecca (Fire Thunder) Galligo.

Rick is survived by his wife of 21 years, Darci Hodnett Galligo; daughters, Rebecca Rosser and Elizabeth (Alec Cliff) Galligo; grandchildren Cydnie Rosser, Jackson Rosser, Angel (Spencer Sheeder) Galligo, and Karter Ten Fingers; Hunka son, Airon Dubray; stepchildren Eugene (Breanna) Russell, Christopher (Erin) Russell; step-grandchildren, Joseph Russell, Benjamin Russell, Violet Russell, Vivian Russell and Calvin Russell; brothers, Richard “Dick” (Deanna) Marshall and William “Bill” Vitalis; sisters Ronya Galligo-Hoblit, Elena Brewer-Dameron, Margarette “Cissy” Vitalis and Carol Jean Vitalis-Big Crow; a very special aunt, Leona Galligo-Vitalis; nephews Steven Marshall, Justin Marshall, Richard Marshall, and Jonathan P Holmes and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Rebecca (FireThunder) Galligo; step-mother, Cora (Lays Hard) Galligo; paternal grandparents John and Stella (Adams) Galligo Sr.; maternal grandparents Edgar and Susie (Weasel Bear) Fire Thunder; sons, Richard John (John-John) Galligo, Jr., and Wilbur Joe Galligo; sisters Edgarita Galligo and Stella Galligo; brother, Arthur “Wade” Vitalis; a very special aunt, Laura Galligo-Brewer; step-mother, Victoria Hoblit-Galligo; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Richard John spent his early years living on the Pine Ridge Reservation where his Galligo Tiospaye saw to his upbringing. He also resided in Gordon, NE, where he attended elementary school. Rick eventually resided in Allen, SD, where he spent most of his growing up years. He attended Todd County High School in Mission, SD, while residing at Bishop Hare Episcopal Home and then lived for a short time in San Jose, CA, where he attained a welding certificate. Rick spent most of his adult life living and working in Rapid City, SD.

When asked what or who he was, his answer might include any or all of the following: son, grandson, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, bull rider, welder, truck driver, joker, singer, lover of music, member of the Oglala Lakota Oyate, Christian, Mormon. Any conversation with Rick would guarantee a story preceded by “Remember the time…?” or “I remember when…” You knew there would be humor and/or insight about one of his adventures. Rick’s proudest achievement was that he had worked as a truck driver for Hills Material for 33 years until his retirement.

Rick was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for 21 years and served as a Branch President, Sunday school teacher, a member of the High Council, Counselor in the Bishopric, and as a High Priest Quorum Advisor.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m., Friday January 19, 2018 at Behrens Wilson Funeral Home, 632 Saint Francis St., Rapid City, SD. Services will be at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 2250 Moon Meadow Dr., Rapid City, SD, at 10:00 a.m. with viewing one hour prior. Interment will be at the Pine Lawn Memorial Park, 4301 Tower Rd., Rapid City, SD.

Lunch served following the interment at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.